The UrbanWaterSecurity Academy is an international initiative dedicated to
advanced training in the sustainable management of urban water resources.
Through a multidisciplinary approach, the Academy aims to develop essential
skills and knowledge to address the challenges associated with urban water
security, a critical issue in the face of rapid urbanization and climate change.
The UrbanWaterSecurity Academy has successfully organized three editions to date:
• First Edition (2022): Held in Salerno, Italy, this inaugural edition laid the foundation for the Academy's mission to address urban water security challenges.
• Second Edition (2023): Conducted in Athens, Greece, from August 30 to September 2, 2023.
• Third Edition (2024): Took place in Paestum, Italy, from June 14 to June 16, 2024, at the Oleandri Resort.
Founded to meet the growing need for innovative and sustainable water management solutions, the Academy is supported by leading academic institutions and international organizations. The Academy provides a unique learning experience that combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications, focusing on innovative solutions to:
- enhance water quality,
- optimize water usage, and
- ensure resource resilience in urban environments.
It brings together young researchers, professionals, and industry experts to exchange ideas, collaborate on sustainable projects, and promote a resilient urban water future.
The fourth edition of the UrbanWaterSecurity Academy will be held on the island of Kos, Greece, from September 2 to 6, 2025, in conjunction with the CEST2025 Conference (Conference on Environmental Science and Technology). This year’s Academy is organized by the Waste Management Laboratory of the Department of Environment at the University of the Aegean (Greece), in cooperation with the Sanitary Environmental Engineering Division (SEED) of the University of Salerno (Italy) and the Advanced Institute of Water Industry at Kyungpook National University (Korea).
Topics
The UrbanWaterSecurity Academy offers intensive training designed
for Master’s and Ph.D. students, post-doctoral researchers, and early-career professionals. This program meets the growing demand for expertise in urban water security by providing a comprehensive understanding of fundamental principles, practical applications, and innovative technologies for urban water management.
The Academy encourages participants to integrate technical knowledge with broader environmental and societal contexts, equipping them to address present and future water challenges in urban environments. The curriculum is developed by a distinguished program committee, which ensures high-quality instruction by selecting top-tier experts in the field.
The Academy program will include:
• Lectures by Leading Experts: Providing both theoretical foundations and
real-world case studies, these sessions will highlight innovations in urban
water security, resource recovery, and resilience planning.
• Hands-On Workshops: Interactive sessions focusing on urban water system
design, management of emerging contaminants, and climate adaptation
strategies, complemented by hands-on demonstrations.
• Discussions and Q&A Sessions: Opportunities for participants to engage
with experts on current challenges, future developments, and critical trends in
urban water security.
• Technical Tours: Field visits to water management facilities in Kos, Greece,
offering firsthand insights into advanced practices in urban water treatment
and sustainable resource management.
This edition will feature prestigious educators, each a global leader in urban water science and technology, included winners of the prestigious PSIPW awards. Their expertise will broaden participants' perspectives and prepare them to lead impactful change. Participants will engage in six specialized modules comprising six comprehensive classes, seven class works, and one technical tour.
Important notice: Attendance of the Academy is free of charge for CEST2025 registered participants and a certificate will be provided. Students who are not registered for CEST2025 and wish to participate should contact us at cest@gnest.org
